Are you wondering how long a timber frame extension will last? We discuss the advantages of timber frame extensions and outline their durability.

How long does a timber frame extension last?

While compared to practically any building material, such as traditional brick buildings, timber won't last as long, but it still has a relatively good lifespan. 

A timber frame extension will have a guaranteed lifespan of 40 - 50 years when constructed from structural-grade, high-quality timber panels. 

Ensuring that you hire the right contractors, designers and architects will also help your timber frames last longer.

Are timber-framed building extensions any good?

Two of the many benefits that timber frame extensions have to offer are, firstly, the extra room in your home and, secondly, the added value to your existing property. 

The speed at which you can construct a timber frame extension alongside your existing building also means you can have a brand new, weatherproof area of your home within days rather than weeks, so long as the weather permits. 

These extensions also offer sustainability benefits, offering better energy efficiency and thermal performance.

Timber frame extension vs brick

The final difference to mention between these two construction materials is that high-quality construction timber will last between 40 - 50 years when installed as an extension to your existing house, while brick will last far longer. 

For the most part, masonry materials will last anywhere up to and beyond 150 years, with clay bricks lasting for centuries. 

If you are unsure of which material would best suit your extension project, you can discuss it with your designer/architect, as they will have a wealth of experience and professional knowledge on the subject.

The truth about timber-framed buildings and extensions

Unlike other regions of the UK, timber has only become a popular building material relatively recently in England. 

With more and more homeowners choosing to extend their home's space, timber frame extensions and the relevant construction techniques are on the rise. 

However, before you go running to your nearest construction firm for some timber panelling, there are a few things to go over regarding timber-framed house extensions.

Affordability

While most materials will account for the vast majority of your project's contingency budget, bespoke timber panels can be particularly expensive. 

However, this is no different than any other elements you might need, such as metal cladding and flooring installation for your timber-framed extension. 

The best way to get the most for your money is to use your timber wisely by combining it with other building materials.

If you are willing to wait a while until these extensions become even more popular, you may be able to reduce your timber frame extension costs. 

Given that working with structural timber is a specialist skill, requiring expert contractors to put it all together safely. 

However, as popularity grows, you will find that more and more contractors start specialising in timber frame construction methods over traditional methods, meaning fewer labour hours involved, subsequently bringing down skilled labour costs. 

 Given that timber frame homes are already popular north of the border in Scotland, those in and around the south of the country will be able to find specialist contractors to help them build their extensions. 

However, those in the South of England will find it far more difficult to find the right contractors to build a timber frame extension.

Fragility

Standing The Test Of Time

Alongside its surprising strength, timber panel extensions will also last you a long time. Unlike other materials, such as clay brick or steel, your timber panels can be repaired repeatedly, meaning with appropriate care and maintenance, your timber could last for generations. 

But this is a full-time job, and you should be prepared for the cost and time it will take to maintain your timber frame extension constantly. 

The best way to mitigate the responsibility of timber maintenance is to purchase properly treated timber in the first place, which will last far longer on its own before any repairs need to be made. While insects and diseases won't bother you if your timber is treated properly, choosing hardy wood species, such as oak, is always advised.

These varieties have natural anti-fungal properties, helping them last far longer than other softwoods. 

Soundproof

Fire Risk

Again, like your soundproofing worries, there are standards established in the UK building regulations that ensure fire safety measures are followed when building with timber. 

Otherwise, you wouldn't be able to use it at all. Therefore, you don't need to worry about fire risks when building a timber frame extension.

Most of the timber and panels used to construct these extensions are treated so they meet the fire resistance required. These timbers have been found to resist fire much like concrete or steel in controlled tests, so there is nothing to worry about.

The truth about timber-framed buildings and extensions

Your timber frame extension may need planning permission before you start building in certain situations. This depends on:

• The location of your existing property.
• The floor size and volume of the extension.
• Your initial designs fit aesthetically with the surrounding building and your neighbours' properties.
  
• How close your extension will come to the border of your property.
  

If you are unsure whether your proposed plans have anything to do with these planning permission requirements, speak to your architect or local planning authority. 

Whatever material you choose to construct your extension from, your local council or authority will enforce these regulations and requirements.

You will also need to pay a fee for your planning permission application. For an extension, this usually comes to £200, but it is best to check with your local authority. The complexity of this process means timber frame extensions are not a do it your self projects, and you will need professional help.

Protection from fire

Protection from fire is one of the more important things to consider when constructing timber frame buildings. 

Naturally, timber is more flammable than steel or masonry, so fire protection regulations must be enforced. Even if a fire does break out, you will have an appropriate fire evacuation plan to keep you and your family safe through these regulations.  

 Another part of these fire precautions involves using the right timber for your timber frame home extensions.

You can't use any old construction timber for your frame or panels; only fire-resistant and properly treated structural timber will do. 

Alongside your timber frame, the interior tilework or coverings on your floors and walls must also be fire-resistant. Your architect will know which materials and timber frame methods to use and how to best place them to keep your property and extension safe from fire.

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Are you considering building your own house in Bedfordshire or the surrounding areas? Our chartered civil engineer specialises in timber frame building, offering project management throughout all stages of the process. 

Alexander Project Management work with construction companies and individual home builders throughout Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire. Contact us  by following the link below.